LekaGape

"A chance to play" is a special three-year program, which has been established by terre des hommes and the Volkswagen work council. The program primarily focuses on children and youth who live in poor areas.

Under the umbrella of ‘A chance to play’ projects are supported, which follow the aim of empowering children and bringing them to a stage where they can successfully handle the challenges of their life.

Not by chance play and sports are in the centre of the program: The ‘right to play’ is manifested in the UN children’s convention, as well as the right to "active recreation" and to "participation in cultural life". All those activities support the personal development of children and youths.

Through sports activities children obtain key qualifications such as team spirit, fairness and self-confidence. Neglected children can learn to deal with their frustration and fear, as well as become more self-confident and feel integrated and accepted as part of a team.

The program is also offering a broad range of activities, which aim to provide the youth with new perspectives for their future, e.g. through vocational trainings or workshops.

The three components of “A chance to play”

• Building play and sports facilities
• Provide education by teaching practical skills
• Promotion and lobbying for the right to play and for protection from exploitation for all children

Through the strong interaction with local people and the cooperation with local authorities the program is making a substantial contribution to a sustainable improvement of life quality.

In cooperation with the Volkswagen work council and terre des homes LekaGape is planning the LekaGape Park as part of the “A chance to play” program. The following facilities will be established:

• Adventure playground: A playground for the children of the community where they can play and improve their coordination skills
• Sports field for Football, Basketball and Netball: A multi-purpose sports ground for the youth of Lulekani where they spend their free time
• Africa Pool: A swimming pool with the shape of the Africa map where children, youth and adults can swim or learn to swim 
• Public green area for events: As there is no accessible green area in Lulekani, this place provides a suitable facility for community events
• Arts and Crafts Centre: In the Arts and Crafts Centre interested people can train and improve their practical skills. Additionally, jobs for the community are created.
• Education Centre: In the Education Centre workshops, theoretical and practical trainings will be provided

Link to "A chance to play" programme: http://www.tdh.de/content/themen/weitere/stunde_zukunft/chance_to_play/index.htm